Most seniors would probably prefer being able to age in their homes. However, many struggle with mobility issues or reduced flexibility, making it difficult to move around their home and perform different daily tasks.
Walking, reaching for an object placed high on a shelf, and even getting dressed in the morning can be more challenging when your body is not as strong and flexible as it used to be.
Fortunately, senior aids for daily living can help seniors stay independent and in their homes for longer.
Here are 11 examples of helpful senior aids.
1. Supportive cushion
Sitting long can strain a senior’s back, spine, and muscles. A cushion can help make any chair more supportive and comfortable so they can relax without feeling too much pain or discomfort.
Of course, it’s best if a senior can lead an active lifestyle instead of spending too much time sitting.
2. Shower chair
A senior who enjoys taking showers might have some difficulty standing upright while they get clean. They can get a height-adjustable shower chair to help make things easier for them.
Such a chair is made from quality materials that will not rust when used underwater and is also designed to stay in place when the floor is wet.
3. Chair lift
A chair lift for seniors assists with daily living meant for wheelchair users. They consist of a platform attached to a track, which allows seniors to go up or down a staircase without needing to get out of their wheelchairs.
A stair lift is a similar system, but it features a seat for seniors who don’t need a wheelchair but have trouble with stairs.
However, both terms are typically interchangeable.
4. Folding cane seat
A folding cane seat is a great senior aid for those who can walk around but might need short breaks when running errands.
They can use a cane to walk. And whenever they need to stop and sit down for a few minutes, they can simply unfold the small retractable seat attached to it.
5. Step-stool
A sturdy step stool will help seniors safely get in and out of bed or in and out of their bathtub. Some step stools are designed specifically for these purposes.
Regular step stools can be carried around a senior’s home to help them perform different tasks or reach items stored on a shelf, in a cabinet or in a closet.
6. Portable step riser
A portable step riser is a senior aid that makes it easier for seniors to climb stairs.
Some models look like a low-step stool, while others can be attached to a cane. This makes it easier for seniors to move their step riser in front of them as they safely go up or down a staircase.
7. Toothbrush handle
A toothbrush handle is an ergonomic handle that makes it easier for seniors to brush their teeth without experiencing discomfort.
Those who suffer from arthritis or who simply find it difficult to hold a narrow object can slip this handle over the handle of their toothbrush so they can easily use it.
The same aid can also be used for cutlery.
8. Grabber stick
A grabber stick, also called a grabber reacher tool, is a perfect device for seniors who have trouble bending down or reaching high.
The non-slip claws of a grabber stick help seniors reach for different objects, whether on the floor or high up on a shelf.
9. Sock aids
Sock aids are designed for seniors with flexibility issues and trouble bending to put on their socks.
All they have to do is slip a sock on the frame of the sock aid before lowering it onto the floor and sliding their foot inside it.
10. Shoehorn
Similarly, a shoehorn is a long, thin stick that helps seniors with flexibility issues put on their shoes.
A long-handled shoehorn can even allow them to put on their shoes while standing up and without bending down.
11. Dressing stick
Finally, a dressing stick is a tool that helps seniors with flexibility issues, back pain, or shoulder pain when putting their clothes on.
A dressing stick is an adjustable rod with a hook on one end. This hook can help seniors pull up their underwear, put on their pants, or get a shirt or a jacket over their shoulders.
By combining many of these senior aids, seniors should be able to move around their homes and perform daily tasks more easily.
